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Infected blood and bodily fluids can spread hepatitis. To avoid contact:

• Do not inject illicit drugs , especially with shared needles. Seek help to stop using drugs.
• Do not have sex with partners who have hepatitis or other sexually transmitted diseases .
• Practice safe sex using latex condoms or abstain from sex.
• Limit your number of sexual partners. A mutually monogamous relationship is best.
• Avoid sharing personal hygiene products (eg, toothbrushes, razors).
• Avoid handling items that may be contaminated with hepatitis-infected blood.
• Donate your own blood before elective surgery so it can be used if you need a blood transfusion .
• Avoid getting a tattoo or a body piercing. If you get a tattoo or body piercing, make sure the artist or piercer properly sterilizes the equipment. You might get infected if the tools have someone else's blood on them.
• If you are a healthcare professional, always follow routine barrier precautions and safely handle needles and other sharp instruments and dispose of them properly.
• Wear gloves when touching or cleaning up bodily fluids on personal items, such as:
  • Bandages
  • Band-aids
  • Tampons, sanitary pads, diapers
  • Linens
• Cover open cuts or wounds.
• Use only sterile needles for drug injections, blood draws, ear piercing, and tattooing.
• If you are pregnant, have a blood test for hepatitis B . Infants born to mothers with hepatitis B should be treated within 12 hours after birth.
• When travelling to countries where the risk of hepatitis is higher, follow proper precautions, such as:
  • Only drinking bottled water
  • Not using ice cubes
  • Avoiding certain foods, like shellfish, unpasteurized milk products, and fresh fruits and vegetables

Good sanitation can prevent the transmission of some forms of hepatitis.

• Wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom or changing a diaper.
• Wash your hands with soap and water before eating or preparing food.
• Carefully clean all household utensils after use.

Ask your doctor if you need a hepatitis vaccine. Vaccines are available for hepatitis A and B .

IG, available for hepatitis A and B, is an injection that contains antibodies, which help provide protection. This shot is usually given:

• Before exposure to the virus, or
• As soon as possible after exposure to the virus